Syracuse, NY – A Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect through 7 a.m. Saturday for Onondaga, Madison, and Oneida counties, where intense snowfall and strong winds are expected to make travel extremely hazardous across central New York.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, snowfall totals could reach 15 to 20 inches in some areas, particularly along and south of Interstate 90, with the most persistent snow bands affecting the Syracuse metro area, Utica, and surrounding towns. Winds up to 35 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, sharply reducing visibility through the evening and overnight hours.
Forecasters warn that snowfall rates could reach up to 2.5 inches per hour, especially along the I-90, I-690, and I-481 corridors, making road conditions treacherous for commuters and post-holiday travelers. The heaviest snow is expected Friday evening before tapering off by early Saturday morning.
Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, and monitor road updates via the New York 511 system. Rapidly changing weather and visibility are common during lake effect snow events, the NWS cautioned.
This storm caps off a snowy Thanksgiving week across upstate New York, signaling a wintery start to the final weekend of November.
